Dear D'Arcy

By D'Arcy Vandenberg

Nordstrom Beauty Buy’s…Item’s I always stock up on!

Hello Beautiful’s,

I wanted to share a few of my favorite things, I always stock up on at the Nordstrom Anniversary sale! If you noticed, I don’t really push the sale or do a ton of featuring! I really do believe it gets a ton of coverage and you see the same top picks from everyone. I like to share with you thing’s I really love or think makes for great wardrobe building. (Did a couple of stories here) I did share a large post on Nordstrom’s SALE items, not from the Anniversary sale Here… These where items I either already owned or felt they were a great deal. Even better… you didn’t have to be a card holder!

As for the Beauty product part of the SALE, I always look forward to these items being on the sale and at great price’s you just can’t beat! You really need to stock up on! #1 I love the Kiehl’s lotion, it hydrates your skin so well & makes your skin silky soft. This large bottle last a really long time. #2 If you know me, you know I am obsessed with Drybar and their products, so when I can get on a sale, Yippee….I am stocking up! #3 I am a big fan of the Nude lips and I love Mac. Every Anniversary sale they do some kind of lip kit and I always grab at least one. #4 Evian water spray is a MUST for Summer, I love how it helps to keep your face refreshed and on these hot Summer day’s it’s great to spritz all over, for a great quick cool down! (if you watch my instastories you’ll see, I included this in my July must haves, I’ve been using!) #5 Best smelling deodorant you’ll ever use! I love how it goes on, how it feels, works amazing and I never feel sweaty! Did I mention how good it smells?   These are 5 of my most favorite items, I use all the time, year after year and never get tired of.  Thank you for taking the time to stop by and read, if you happen to use my shopping links, I really appreciate you! 

 

#1 Jumbo Creme de Corps Bottle with Pump

Kiehl’s Creme de Corp

Price Sale:$52.00 Free Shipping Original Price After Sale:$75.00
 

#2. Here, There, Everywhere Set

DRYBAR

Price $52.00 Free Shipping

($75 Value)
What it is: A four-piece hair care set featuring Drybar favorites in full and travel sizes.
 
hair care product

#3. MAC Nude Lip Trio

MAC COSMETICS

Price $36.50 Free Shipping

($54.50 Value)
What it is: A trio of neutral lip colors for the perfect pout.What it does: The Lipstick is formulated to shade, define and showcase the lips.
lip kit

#4. Facial Water Spray Set

EVIAN

Price $18.00 Free Shipping

($33 Value)
What it is: A facial spray imported from a unique underground water source at the base of the French Alps to hydrate, blend and revive all skin types.
water hydration for your face
 
 

#5.Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Deodorant Trio

DONNA KARAN NEW YORK

Price $65.00 Free Shipping

($81 Value)
What it is : A deodorant set featuring an advanced formula that controls wetness and perspiration while keeping you feeling dry and smelling fresh all day. 
best deodorant

Self-employed, and I Why I sold my Boutique.

Self-employed, and I why I sold my Boutiques.

Feeling Getting real with you today, beautiful!

self employed boutique owner

Boutique owner

If you have followed me, you know I owned my clothing boutiques for eight years. Some of you may have known I owned my home decor/ interiors and scrapbooking shop in California for ten years before moving to Utah.

Yes, self-employed for 21 years! ( 3 years of doing interior design freelance work)  Most of you have asked why to sell. You are living a lot of woman’s dreams, owning a boutique. 

Getting Real

Well, I am getting real with you! Being a Girl Boss and being self-employed is terrific in many ways and just as stressful in others. While I loved almost every minute of it…I was tired!

Tired of working 70-80 hours a week, tired of missing dinner with my family, tired of paperwork & bills, and stressed at what the economy or even the weather would bring.

Daily to-do’s of owning your business isn’t just ordering pretty things, displaying them, and building beautiful relationships. However, that is all part of the joy.

There was so much joy in growing our little clothing boutique to 3 stores, a website, and even a monthly subscription box. 

With each new adventure and growth came challenges and more of my time. Yes, I made great money….with even more significant sacrifices, and it was time to make some changes.

Selling the Boutiques

I didn’t know I would sell the shops or even what I would do next. I just knew I wanted a change and that blogging and social media were my new passion, and I would love to be able to spend time learning more about them. But owning a business takes up all of your time.

Then, through God’s plan, I was lucky enough that A name popped into my head, and I knew it was right, and the business was sold in 1 week! Now what…Starting over at 46 and taking on a new career? Scary, yet…exciting!

Sold

It’s been six months since I sold… Do I miss it? I can honestly say no!

Do I miss searching for the most fabulous items to bring in, doing all the displays, and creating a fun look for all my customers? Yes, I do; most of all, I miss all the fabulous customers and loyal clientele I enjoyed working with over the years.

I truly felt I had built a family, and I appreciate all those who supported me and our small business over the years. I will never forget so many happy faces and great conversations! so blessed to have had that time and support from all that shopped with us.

What the Future Holds

I appreciate those who follow my blog and social media, and I am grateful for those who shop my links and like or comment on posts, as this is how I am trying to build my next business.

I have had so many of you ask, “how you make money blogging and social media?”  Think of it as a Marketing firm…I am marketing products and brands that I love! (will go into this in another post) 

I want you to know I do not promote companies I don’t truly love or haven’t tested out. I want you to feel you can trust me ( just like at my shops) and that I want to share advice and idea’s that are helpful to you, just like I did at the stores.

So, you’re asking yourself, is she self-employed? Didn’t I want a change… Yes, I am still self-employed ( I have been trying to get a job while building this new adventure, more on that next!)

What is different 

Yes, I wanted a change (remember… I enjoyed the time to try this new love of blogging and social media). Owning a storefront differs from working from home; even though you must be dedicated, you can schedule your work time around your family time. I don’t have to be open 10-6 and then stay at the shop until 9 or 10 pm to get everything I need to do that day! 

Do you want to open a boutique? do you want me to do a post on tips, what you need, or how to do it?) 

So, in short, it means the world that you stopped to read this blog post, liked a Facebook or Instagram post or followed youtube; it helps my rating more than I could ever explain. 

A little explanation of one of the ways I make money

I receive a tiny percentage when you shop my links. On my blog or posting & sharing discount codes, shopping my Liketoknowit, and Amazon Storefront. This is at no cost to you. 

Follow my Like to know it where you can shop my looks, get sales alerts, see app-only content, and get inspiration.

I also have an Amazon Store Front. You’ll find curated shopping boards, product reviews, and my picks.

Helping women look and feel good at any age.

I appreciate all of your support, and if you ever have a question on styling, a product, or interiors, comment below or email me, and I will try to help you in any way I can. My goal is to help women look and feel good at any age.

This was why I created Dear Darcy, a play on Dear Abby; I want to help & share!

The Job hunt

As for looking for a new job or career at 46 years old and the last 21 years of being self-employed, it has been one crazy & complex process!! AND… if I hear one more time, I am “overqualified”…I want to scream!!!    While building this new business and learning a ton, It will be a while until I can make a living to support my spending habits!

LOL,  I was hoping to start a new career with a 401k…hehe, No, really, I want to branch out and try something different but still be creative! At first, I started looking at management positions, not focusing on creativity, and Boy…that was a huge mistake!!!

Taken a Job I thought I wanted

I took a job that was a massive 2 1/2 month process to get hired and so stressful ( that should have been a clue!) It was nothing like the position I thought I signed up for! I never felt so out of place and realized I couldn’t use any of my strengths!

This was a great lesson, and I realized I need a job where I can be creative, deal with people, use my strengths, and still have time to blog: a full-time job, 40 hours a week instead of 70. I am on the hunt…I had a couple of interviews last week, and I’ll keep you posted.

Meanwhile, if you need help decorating your home, staging a house, marketing something, planning a party, styling your outfits, or organizing your closet… I am your girl; contact me:). If you hear of a great job that you think I’d be great for, please message me. 

I hope this answered some of your questions and gave you insight into why I did what I did and what I am doing now! Again thank you so much for your support and for following along on my journey.

self employed boutique owner

Top {Anthropoligy} sold out, belt {Hermes} sold out, Jeans {kut from the Kloth} shoes {Gianni Bini} Similar here

self employed boutique owner

Whether you are a Girl boss or a Mom boss, I hope you enjoy your work. If not, I have inspired you to start over at any age!

 

 

 

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

The most anticipated sale of the Year! Starts Today but only for card holders…. I didn’t want non-card holders to feel left out, so I scoured all 136 pages of the sale section, to bring you my top picks! I hope you enjoy seeing some of the pieces, I purchased and am swooning over. Perfect piece’s to add to your Summer wardrobe, transition your Summer wardrobe into Fall and piece’s you’ll live in all Winter!  This Sale is the best prices of the year and makes for a great time to stock up. I will share my Anniversary picks later in the week and my beauty picks.

Things to remember : The Anniversary SALE opens today for card holders….Don’t have a card? Apply here ,To shop the Card holder sale July 12-19th. Store sale will open to the Public on July 20th- August 5th. If your a card holder, Don’t forget you get a triple points day, so don’t forget to schedule it for the day your headed to go shop. If your shopping online, you can schedule it before checking out.  If you feel like shopping my page & using my links Here and below, I thank you from the bottom of my heart because I do get a very very small commission, which allows me to keep doing what I love. I hope you enjoy my picks and don’t forget to watch my instagram stories later TODAY, July 12th to see my try-ons and more in store details. Again thank you for your support and taking time for stopping by and reading my post.

You don’t have to be a card holder to SHOP the SALE below……

Palisades Off the Shoulder Top

FREE PEOPLE

Original Price $68.00
Price $34.00–$45.56 up to 50% off
Slouchy dolman sleeves and off-the-shoulder styling make this comfy tri-blend top a pitch-perfect homage to ’80s style.  I love this top so much I bought it in ALL the colors! Great everyday piece.
Original Price $68.00 Price $40.80 40% off Free Shipping
A contemporary take on the classic henley, this version features gentle pleats and a swingy babydoll shape. I will live in this in the Fall and Winter, perfect for laying too!
 
Original Price $55.00 Price$32.98 40% off Free Shipping
Whether you layer it with a blazer or rock it solo, show off a bit of skin in this strappy camisole. This cutie has been all over social media! It’s perfect for laying come Fall and Winter!
Original Price $148.00 Price $88.80 40% off Free Shipping
The boho dress of your dreams is soft in gauzy, lightweight cotton and lavishly decorated with pretty contrast embroidery. I love this dress and purchased it in Coral (sorry it’s not available) I will be wearing this All summer & Fall!

Lace Neck Halter Gown

Regular & Petite

Original Price $228.00 Price $136.80 40% off Free Shipping
Panels of eyelash lace offering alluring glimpses of skin grace the neckline and back of a curve-hugging gown. Need a dress for a black tie event? Here’s my pick!
 
Original Price $79.00 Price $47.40 40% off Free Shipping
Pointelle stitches add airy style to a longline cardigan that’s cozy enough for late nights by the fire, even once the weather cools off. I’ll grab a sweater over a coat most of the time! This one is perfect for Chilly Summer nights and Fall layering!
Original Price $22.00 Price $10.99 50% off Free Shipping
Faux raffia fans out from the glittering center of these statement earrings texturized by subtle seed beads. Because tassel earrings are so fabulous!!
 

Regular & Petite

Original Price $89.50 price $53.70 40% off Free Shipping
With clean rugby stripes and an easy throw-on-and-go silhouette, this comfy cotton wrap skirt embodies the best of summer style. You know how much I adore black and white stripes! Wear with a white tank and a cute sandal for summer and take it into Fall with a denim jacket and a slide.
 
Original Price $69.95 Price $29.90 55% off Free Shipping
It’s all about backless footwear this season, and this leather mule topped with a knotted bow is sure to be a favorite from 9-to-5 and through the weekend. I adore gingham, almost as much as stripes! These mules can almost be worn year round! 
Original Price $245.00 Price$146.98 40% off Free Shipping
Extravagant crystal embellishments light up the back and wrap the slender heel of a gorgeous peeptoe pump in lustrous satin. I wear these a ton with distressed jeans and super cute to dress up a denim dress. Think dress up  everyday denim, not to just be worn with a cocktail dress!
Original Price $128.95 Price $77.37 40% off Free Shipping
Standout embroidery and a bit of beading bloom across the thick fabric straps of a sunny flat sandal that’s anything but garden-variety. Well… you know I adore anything embroidered! How cute are these to finish off any summer outfit!

Regular & Petite

Original Price $139.00 Price $83.40 40% off Free Shipping
As comfortable in the conference room as it is in a coffee shop, this cute cotton blazer sports a cheerful check lining that extends to the pocket flaps. A closet staple…. Everyone needs a great blazer! Works for every season!
Original Price $58.00 Price $34.80 40% off Free Shipping
Drop-shoulder styling and a front keyhole cutout intensify the casual-cool attitude of this tri-blend burnout tee. A great basic with a fun twist! I got this in all the colors!
Original Price $64.00 Price $38.40 40%  off Free Shipping
Off-duty style takes on retro-chic vibes with this comfy American-made tri-blend sweatshirt. So cute! Yes, I know all the cus words in French! Maybe the only thing I remember from 3 years of French in High school!
Original Price $99.00 Price $59.40 40% off Free Shipping
There’s no need to sacrifice cozy warmth for style when you slip into this long cardigan knit from soft, plush yarn. Talk about cozy!! I am going to live in this fab sweater all Winter long!
 
Original Price $119.00 Price $65.90 45% off Free Shipping
An off-the-shoulder neck tops this chic cocktail dress designed with dramatic bell sleeves and a chic midi-length hem spliced with a soaring side slit. Because everyone needs a Perfect little black dress!
Original Price $89.00 Price $53.40 40% off Free Shipping
The right amount of ripping makes these jeans on-trend, and the pair you’ll choose on the regular. You guy know my favorite jeans are by Kut from the Kloth, so grab these cuties at a great deal! Perfect All year round!
Original Price $35.00 Price $21.0040% off Free Shipping
Get on the roadway to rocker-cool style with this weathered jersey tee featuring the iconic cover photo from AC/DC’s ’79 album. One of my ALL time Favorite Rock bands! You can never own to many concert tee’s!
 
 
I hope you enjoyed my SALE picks and remember you don’t have to be a card holder to shop the SALE above! Make sure to watch my instagram stories later today to see Some of my Anniversary picks! Instagram Here
If your shopping Nordstrom anytime and want to use my link to shop Here (which gives me a teeny tiny commission)  I appreciate it and thank you in advance, as this is how I can do what I love to do and share what I share.   Have a perfect day beautiful! OX, D’Arcy
 
 
 
This post contains affiliate links. All opinions are my own. I promote brands that I truly love and believe in! Thank you for your support!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Memorial weekend Sales

Happy Holiday weekend! I hope your having a wonderful time with family and friends! We’re doing yard work, home repair’s and of course some bbq’s. I wanted to hop on here and share some sale codes, to kick off Summer with some great SALES! I am sharing some of my favorite Deal’s, Steals and Pieces to take your wardrobe and beauty into Summer at killer savings!

Nordstrom: Half Yearly Sale up to 40% off.  

My go to Favorites: This Dress, A great Tee $13.20, The perfect Gingham top, One of my favorite dresses ever, You need this Jumpsuit, Sandals everyone always tells me they want when wear. Because you need white jeans, the perfect summer evening bag, Season Must have, Cutest sleepwear, My favorite shorts to throw over a swim suit. 

ShopBop: up to 40% off. 

My picks: A great read, another cute read, A bathing suit I love, wedges you’ll live in, from lunch with the girls to the beach bag. Dress you’ll wear all summer, If you can splurge

BareMinerals:  Free shipping and purchase a foundation and primer together ONLY $45.00 use code: MDW2018 

Cupshe: Starting swimsuits at $13.99 and Free Shipping use this code.

Nic + Zoe: Save 25% off  Spring Favorites enter Promo code =SPFAVS at checkout

DOLCE VITA: Extra 20% off use promo code =EXTRA20

SOLE SOCIETY:Memorial Day Sale: Up To 60% Off Select Styles

KERASTASE: Get Free Shipping, Plus 4 Hair Care Minis With Orders of $85+. Get Free Shipping, Plus a Travel-Size Hair Primer with Orders of $100+, Get Free Shipping, 2 Travel-Size Products & Travel Pouch With Orders of $150+. CODE=MEM18 at checkout. Valid 5/24-5/29

7 FOR ALL  MANKIND: 7 For All Mankind Memorial Day Sale – 40% off select styles. Valid 5.24 – 5.29

CONTAINER STORE: 10% OFF TOTAL PURCHASE CODE =TCSTEN

SPLENDID= 30% OFF SITEWIDE CODE= TAKE30  MY FAVORITE BASIC AND THE SOFTEST TEE’S AND TEESHIRT DRESSES!

BCBGENERATION: MEMORIAL DAY 40% OFF ENTIRE PURCHASE.

STANDARDS & PRACTICES: 25% OFF ALL TENCEL Dresses No code needed, See the one I used on Fox13 The Place Here. 

 

My Smile Journey With Smile Direct Club

Smile Direct impression kit. From the impression,Smile Direct generates 3d model of your teeth to begin building your smile.

getting started kit

Smile Direct Aligner molding kit.

smile direct club kit

Smile Direct at home kit!
Invisible aligner kit with 5 months of aligners.

clear liners

Invisible Aligner tray’s and holder.

clear liners

Invisible Aligner tray’s and holder.

I couldn’t be happier to start my smile journey with Smile Direct Club. I never wore braces and was always lucky to have naturally straight teeth. As I have aged my two top teeth have turned in a touch and my one bottom tooth has moved back. Most people wouldn’t notice, but it’s been bugging me for the last couple years and I really didn’t want to do the whole braces thing at 46!  I looked into other invisible liner companies and it was so expensive, I decided to hold off.  Then to my delight, Smile Direct contacted me and said I’d be a great candidate for their invisible aligners and would I want to work with them! YES….Yes please! So you could see why, I couldn’t be happier!  

I started the processes about 2 1/2 months ago, without the hassle of appointments and metal braces, my impression kit arrived in the mail. It was so easy to take the impressions and send the molds back to Smile Direct in the pre-paid box.  A couple weeks later my invisible aligner box set arrived.  I say “box set” because it came with everything you need for 5 months to have a straighter smile, all in 1 box!  This kit is so easy, everything is labeled, organized and they even send you a reminder email on the day you need to changed your aligner. You change your aligner’s monthly and wear a new one on week 1 & 2 then week 3 & 4 you wear the same one, until you start a new month.  

I am already noticing a big difference two and half months in. My top teeth have become not as angled and my bottom tooth has really moved forward. I can’t wait to share with you my end results, in about 3 months.

Just a little note: I haven’t experienced any pain in this process, yet my teeth feel a little strange, sometimes and I have been told this is normal.

Do you need a little help with you teeth and want to have a confident smile? Smile Direct is affordable and even more affordable if you use my code.  

https://smiledirectclub.com/DARCYSMILES for 50% off your own at-home kit or a free scan in a SmileShop markets! (we have one in Sugar House Utah!) 

I hope you have a beautiful weekend! Ox, D’Arcy

 

This post was a collaboration with Smile Direct and may contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own. I only promote brands that I truly love and believe in! Thank you for you support.

 

 

Perfect look’s for Spring that can take you into Summer!

Sharing fun looks today on Fox13 The Place, that can take you from Spring to Summer with easy. (I will share link to watch later today) Each outfit is from one of my favorite new shopping sites Standards and Practices. A great company that carries on trend and great quality clothes for woman size 0-22. If you visit their site

Accessorizing the looks! A couple of years ago, we had statement necklace as a huge trend….Now we have statement earrings! They started showing up last Spring, Now it’s a must have item to give your outfit that finishing touch. Trending everywhere, we’re seeing large earrings in tassel’s, fringe, beaded, metals and acrylic. I’ve picked some favorites to pair with today’s outfit’s, from Victor and Mark! I hope you enjoy todays show and blog post!

spring outfit

This racerback jumpsuit is crafted from a stunning red floral graphic print chiffon. The playful capri romper ties as a halter around the neck,and defines your figure with a waist tie. With a cropped length,the legs feature split front hems, with the splits reaching up to the knee for a fun additional detail.

For today’s model Kjirstin, I paired this cute romper with these great statement earrings by Victor and Marc, giving this look the finishing touch. This outfit can be worn with heals like in photo or with a cute wedge like I paired with on today’s Fox13 The Place, fashion segment. This look is a perfect look for a Garden wedding, Lunch with the girls or even a baby shower.

 

statement earring

Sangria red Tassel Earring by Victor and Marc help finish off this darling outfit! I have been obsessing over their earrings lately! ( I think I have 6 or so pairs now!) You can only shop this little mama owned business on instagram here.  Here’s a fun little fact about these earrings= Victor and Marc Loved being apart of the collaboration with the super talented and creative singer/songwriter/fashion blogger and writer @ariellepaul .Head over to her blog to check out her write up on the magical pairing of @victorandmarc and @maisonkemang. Their handbags are all handmade and beautifully unique – the perfect combo with Victor and Marc statement jewels.

This denim chambray dress is sexy, casual, and feminine. Ashley is a high-low racerback dress with thin spaghetti straps. The midi dress is made from comfortable soft tencel in a wash that’s slightly faded around the seams for a cool, lived-in look. The high-low back gives the classic jean dress a modern silhouette that moves and flows when you walk. Easy to Wear; Pull over your head and go. Includes navy chiffon lining.

The Ashley dress that I styled cute Britney in for today’s Fox13 Segment is a perfect dress to wear all Spring & Summer. For casual shopping day’s or running kids around while looking chic and comfortable. I dresses it up today with fun tassel statement earrings by Victor and Mark (shown below.) This cute look can be worn with flip flops, booties or a wedge sandal, depending on the look & comfort your wanting!

light blue earring

M I L A || A stunning mix of #tassels and #beads. Faux velvet stud with gold trimmings. A must have this summer season or Euro summer escape. Shop here Victor and Marc

wishbone

This white ponte midi dress is sophisticated for the workwear and playful enough for after hours. Elegant and bright, this sleeveless sheath dress features a longer back with back zip and scoop neckline. The sleeveless dress is slightly longer in the back for asymmetrical hemline that’s both feminine and current.

I loved this cute cream Horseshoe or wishbone dress, perfect for work or a wedding shower. Wishing I would have had it for my Son’s college graduation! You really will get a lot of use out of this cute and easy to wear dress. I paired it for today’s segment with my favorite denim jacket to show you can dress it down and make it more casual, for a day date or a spring evening.  I was so excited to find these perfect matching horseshoe acrylic earrings, mimics the design of the dress perfect! (crazy that their named Hudson, like my oldest son!)

acrylic earring

H U D S O N :: NEW to Victor and Marc. #Geometric #acrylic stud with horseshoe shape drop. Both simple and bold for whatever statement you want to make! Comes in black, white, yellow

Circle straw bag

Ciara bag is perfect for Spring and Summer. Pairs perfectly with all 3 of these looks. This seasons must have straw circle bag, is a great bag to take from lunch to the pool!  This fun company The Bagtique has so many cute bags for Spring and Summer, I really am purchasing way to many bags and clutches!

I love clothing that you can wear for multiple seasons and really feel like your getting your money’s worth in quality and style. Shopping Standards and Practices gives you just that! These 3 looks have very different feels and are great for many of life’s event through Spring and Summer, dress them up or down with your shoes and accessories. Layer them up for a chilly Spring day or Summer night!  I hope you enjoyed today’s post and if you didn’t catch the segment on Fox13 The Place, I’ll post it here later today!

Fox13 The place Fashion Segment view here…..

Do you have a fashion styling question or idea you would like me to share on the show? leave a comment and I’ll try my hardest to help you out! 

Enjoy you day beautiful’s! OX, D’Arcy

 

This post was a collaboration with Standards & Practices and Victor and Marc and may contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own. I only promote brands that I truly love and believe in! Thank you for the support! 

8 must have Spring items! Watch my Fashion segment Today on @Fox13

8 spring items you need

leather Jacket sold out, white tee sold out similar here, Skirt here, flowers here, wedges here

standards and practices

8 items every woman needs for Spring

 

8 items ever woman needs!

 

8 items ever woman needs!

 8 Must have Spring items, Every woman needs to have in her Spring wardrobe!                                                                    I added a couple of choices so my Shopping list is 13 items                                                                                1.| Blessed Tee 2.| HAPPY  tee 3.| Chambray Skirt 4.|Utah Tee                                                                             5.|Sunset Tee 6.|Statement earrings 7.| Wedge 8.| Wedge                                                                                       9. Ark Bag 10.|Ciara round bag 11.|Sunglasses 12.|Denim jacket                                                                          13.|White Jeans                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    8 Must have Spring Items, every woman needs to have in her Spring wardrobe!                                 Great wardrobe builders and basics to dress up items you might all ready have in your closet. I love pieces that are on trend but aren’t really “trendy” by this I mean you can add any of these pieces to your wardrobe and have them to pull out for seasons to come. Classic white jeans, a denim jacket that is a perfect layering piece, a neutral bag in a fun shape, a basic chambray shirt, you really can’t go wrong! Add a fun bag & a statement earring to your closet favorites and it give your whole outfit the look of being all new! All 8 of these piece help build your wardrobe and give it a touch of Spring.                            
–Denim Skirt= Really this flattering skirt is chambray, soft and a flattering length that you can dress up or wear with tee shirt and flip flops. A great wardrobe staple piece. This company specializes in sizes 0-22 with on trend and great quality pieces.  Standards and Practices, is one of my New favorite shopping sites.
–Graphic tees =Everyone loves a tee shirt and cute Graphic’s, sayings and state speciality tee’s are a big trend this spring!  (This cute local Utah company)  My Humble Threads makes the cutest specialty tee’s unique, soft and so cute! Get an extra 15% off with my code HEROES I love to support woman owned local companies, go check this one out! Items for babies to adults.
– Spring bags = You’ll love these bags and are seeing with every Spring outfit look… There On my Hottest trends ALERT, The Ciara round bag and the Ark Bag. Perfect for lunch or the beach you’ll use these bags every Spring and Summer! A great Straw or bamboo bag will always be in style! On sale Now at The Bagtique
–Statement earrings =bright and colorful to dress up any outfit, light weight and right on trend at an affordable price. On SALE now for $15 at The Bagtique
– Sunglasses =A great new pair of Sunglasses that go with everything and come in several colors Here
–White jeans =People get nervous about white jeans but they really do go with everything and look great on every shape. I personally think everyone should grab a pair!
– Denim jacket =Perfect for layering and a great basic! Kut from the Kloth is my favorite, as I have stated before here and here for more styling options. It’s fit is so flattering and tapers in at the waist for a slimming effect. 
–Wedge sandal =easy to wear elongates the leg and looks great with jeans to skirts! It’s a must have trend again this year. I can stand in these all day long, so comfortable!

 

I will be talking more about these 8 must have Spring piece today on Fox13 The Place! Heres the link to view the show.

 

I hope you enjoyed my picks! Let me know if you grabbed any of the pieces or if you have a stying question! Ox, D’Arcy

All opinions are my own, I only promote brands that I truly love and believe in and this may contain affiliate links. Thank you for taking the time to read and for your support.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Let’s talk 40’s….Woman in our 40’s..Ready? It’s getting real!

outfit of the Day

Outfit details: Off the shoulder top on sale here, embroidered Jeans, Sandals sold out similar here, trench coat Similar here, sunglasses here, handbag sold out similar here

Ok, let’s get real…. You know I am 46 and age hasn’t really never mattered to me. My best friend Danielle is 10 days older then I am (yes..I enjoy saying that! hehe) We have enjoyed many of our Birthday’s together…. Sweet 16, our right to vote 18, Our mom’s taking us to gamble at 21 and with each one she was a little terrified of whats was to come. She really didn’t want to turn 25 (no real reason why?) Our 30th birthday I think was her hardest (my mom said that was her hardest too) I never had a thought of our age at any year and would just giggle at her and told her “we never look our age.. it’s all good” Did you have a birthday you dreaded? Then comes then one most people dread 40…Do you know our 40th Birthday she didn’t even flinch or say one comment about turning 40…Could it have been, we finally really get comfortable about who we are at 40?     

I have enjoyed every age, each has it’s plus and minus. I remember my mom saying back when I was a teenager ” I loved being a teenager but you couldn’t pay me to go back!” At that time I thought why? you loved it, it’s such a fun time and carefree…. ( it’s different being a teenager now!)  Now, as I am raising young adults, I get what she was saying. I also had great teenage years and I would not go back either. I have truly embraced every age and all the lessons and joy!  BUT… and there is a BIG BUT…40’s has some of the Biggest changes…some good, some challenging and some funny if you can laugh at yourself!   

After 40, some funny things that happen to you that doesn’t always get talked about. Some things are kind of funny ( like the arm reach out with the menu, that we teased our parents about!)  My eye’s just started having issues this year. After 46 years of 20/20 vision my mom said “D’Arcy Michelle are you wearing readers?” yup, yup I am! Cute ones here🙂 for $6.99

At 40 I noticed I was gaining weight (I was lucky and never really had a weight issue, yes everyone always wants to lose 5-10 lbs in the Summer!) but really never anything more then that. At 40 I really was struggling and my Ob Gyn Dr. said I was fine and all my blood work was fine…but I didn’t feel fine? It wasn’t until I turned 43 that I knew I wasn’t fine and searched out a solution to help me!  It was having my Hormones done by a hormone specialist, let me tell you it was life changing! ( I have talked more about this in prior post Here) our hormones change at different times for each individual but most of us notice a difference in our weight, hair, skin and tiredness starting at 40. Once my hormones were regulated I felt like my old self.  Hormone changes is something more woman need to share with each other and know it’s ok to talk about! It’s 2018 we can share what’s going on with our bodies at any age!  

After 40 our hair thins out, yet we get more on our FACE! What…. Nobody tell’s you you’ll need these…Unless you have a make-up artist sister!     “Please someone, when I can’t see any more.. pluck the hair out of my mole!” This has become a joke with a few of my girlfriends!  

Skin changes not just the tightness of our skin, or the creepiness but the dryness! In the last year my skin is so dry and I can’t seem to get enough moisturizer on my face & neck. (some night’s all slather on Vaseline!)  For other’s it can be the on set of adult acne, REALLY?  Didn’t we already go through that as teenagers? Here is a product my girlfriends with this issue are loving! I found these couple product’s really do help with dryness Here and Here.  Also drinking a ton of water helps and I have been adding this to mine, but you do really have to have a morning and night beauty routine. No more going to bed with out washing your face. I love this product to remove make up!

Our kids are older ( depending on when you had them) Which gives us freedom and our lives back with our hubby’s…. But sadly there is no more Santa clause or egg hunts! This was our first year Santa didn’t come and our first Easter without having an egg hunt. Heartbreaking “No more little’s” Don’t get me wrong as sad as that sounds… I loved those day’s and will cherish the memories…but getting to actually lay on a lounger and drink a cocktail next to my husband by the pool is quite relaxing, not having to be in the water all day and hear “mommy look at me, watch me!” and turn into a wrinkled prune:) We’ll miss those day’s without “Littles” for the brief time before our children start to have children and we get to play with those darling grand babies….it could be a short window of time for some, so take joy in that time you get to have a little time for yourself and your spouse. See 40’s isn’t that bad!

40’s can bring your periods back like when you were a teenager!! Lucky they have a procedure called an ablation. Which makes it so you won’t ever have another period without effecting your hormones. I have had several girlfriends go this route and love it! “Couldn’t do that as a teenager!”

Sleeping changes in our 40’s and a lot of it has to do with our hormones…. Progesterone help’s us sleep and we started losing it in our 30’s…. If you have issues have them check that, before reaching for sleeping aids!  (once my hormones were regulated…I started sleeping like a teenager again!) 

Sex…Yes I said it! Sex can be the best you’ve ever had! See 40’s has some plus’s! I won’t go into detail…but this I am guessing has a big part to do with being comfortable in your own skin…you know who you are at 40….I am sure you can take where I am going with this from here:) wink!

Life over 40….I personally feel you know who you are in your 40’s and you can be in “your own skin” Nobody to impress, your career is on it’s way, your family is established, hopefully your marriage is strong and you’ve established your true friends and support system and if your really lucky your parents are still around and healthy to enjoy them too. Let’s face it as we age they do too. 

  Life will always have up’s and downs, twist and turns but really age is just a number…embrace it & laugh as you go….Just make sure to look Chic at every age:) WINK:) OX, D’Arcy

Are you experiencing something you didn’t know you would or think we should talk about? Comment below let’s help each other out:)

All opinions are my own, I am not a Doctor so please seek advice from a physician. I only promote brands that I truly love and believe in and this may contain affiliate links. Thank you for taking the time to read and for your support.

My pick’s from Shopbop’s Spring Sale

One of My favorite time’s of the year SPRING…. And what a better way then to kick it off 

with Shopbop’s Spring sale…..Here’s what’s in MY cart….

Who doesn’t love a SALE?  20% off total order or if you spend over $500 you get 25% off USE code EVENT18  Here is just a few of my favorite Spring & Summer items that are in my cart.  There is so many cute items this season it was hard for me to pick just 20!

                                       ONE|TWO|THREE|FOUR|FIVE |SIX |SEVEN|                                       

                               EIGHT|NINE|TEN|ELEVEEN|TWELVE|THIRTEEN|
                        FOURTEEN|FIFTEEN|SIXTEEN|SEVENTEEN|EIGHTEEN

                                                          NINETEEN|TWENTY

I hope you enjoyed my picks and have fun checking out Shopbop. Hurry it’s only a 3 day SALE. I love if you have Amazon prime you get FREE shipping too.  Happy Shopping and please let me know your pick’s by commenting below!   

Do you have any styling questions for me leave a comment below and i’ll get answered in My Dear-D’Arcy Question and answer series! OX, D’Arcy

This post may contain affiliate links.All opinions are my own. I only promote brands that I believe in. Thank you for supporting me!